Iran's top negotiator warned the U.S. that restarting hostilities would result in consequences that are more crushing and bitter [1].
The warning comes as both nations maintain a fragile cease-fire following a conflict that broke out in late February 2026 [4]. Any return to active warfare threatens to destabilize regional security, and disrupt global energy markets.
Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament and the country's top negotiator, made the remarks Saturday during a meeting in Tehran with the Pakistani army chief [1, 2]. Ghalibaf said that the response would be even more severe if the U.S. foolishly restarts the war [3].
He emphasized that Iran's military posture has shifted since the onset of the conflict. Ghalibaf said that Iran’s armed forces have rebuilt their capabilities during the cease-fire [2]. This replenishment of resources is presented as a deterrent against future American military intervention.
Throughout the meeting, Ghalibaf maintained that the Iranian government would not yield to external pressures regarding its national interests. He said that Iran will not compromise on the rights of its nation, and country [2].
The interaction with the Pakistani military leadership highlights Iran's effort to maintain regional alliances while facing tensions with Washington. By framing the potential restart of war as a foolish move, Ghalibaf is signaling that Tehran views its current military position as stronger than it was at the start of the 2026 conflict [4].
“"The consequences would be more crushing and bitter if the United States foolishly restarts the war."”
This rhetoric indicates that Iran is utilizing the current cease-fire not only for diplomatic maneuvering but for active military reconstitution. By explicitly linking their rebuilt capabilities to the threat of a 'bitter' response, Tehran is attempting to shift the cost-benefit analysis for U.S. policymakers, suggesting that any renewed aggression would face a more prepared and resilient Iranian defense than the one encountered in February 2026.
